Bleeding that is light and occurs over a long period of time may make you feel tired and short of breath.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You may also be asked if you noticed the blood after vomiting, retching or seizures. A physical exam will also be done.

To determine the location, cause, and amount of your bleeding your doctor may take a:

Complete blood count

Stool test—to check for blood in the stool

Upper GI endoscopy—a thin, lighted tube is inserted down the throat to examine the digestive tract and collect tissue samples

Nasogastric lavage—a tube placed through the nose and into the stomach removes contents to check for bleeding

Angiography—an x-ray of the blood vessels, that may also be used as treatment

Treatment

Mallory Weiss tears will often heal by themselves without treatment.

If the tear is severe your doctor may recommend further treatment. You may need surgery to close the tear or a blood transfusion for excessive blood loss.

Angiography

Angiography can control bleeding. The angiography will help locate the bleeding. The doctor will then inject medications or other materials into the blood vessels. These medications will control the bleeding until the tear can heal.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy can also be used to stop bleeding. An endoscope is a tube that is placed into the mouth and passed through the esophagus. Your doctor can stop the bleeding by several methods including:

Injecting chemicals into the bleeding site

Using a heat probe, electric current, or laser to seal off the bleeding site

Using a band or clip to close off blood vessels

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of Mallory Weiss tears:

Avoid excess alcohol use

Treat conditions that cause excessive coughing or vomiting

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Bleeding in the digestive tract. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/digestive-diseases/bleeding-in-the-digestive-tract/Pages/facts.aspx. Accessed July 2012.